Seminar Informs Small Business Owners on Benefits of HubZone Certification

Small business owners from throughout Northwest Indiana took in an informative seminar on how to expand business opportunities with the federal government through the HubZone status designated to Michigan City following the 2010 U.S. Census Thursday morning at the Blue Chip Casino.

A HubZone program is there to provide federal contracting assistance for qualified small businesses located in historically underutilized business zones in an effort to increase employment opportunities, investment and economic development. But even though there is no fee for applying, there are currently no “HubZone certified” businesses in La Porte County.

“I would highly recommend this if you see this program as something you’d qualify for,” said Marty Anderson, lead economic development specialist at the U.S. Small Business Administration - Indiana District Office while delivering the seminar to interested business owners. “Add this tool to your tool box, and we will help you through the process.”

Clarence Hulse, executive director of the Economic Development Corporation Michigan City (EDCMC), said the seminar contained “lot of information,” sharing his hopes that small businesses take advantage of the “many ways” to leverage the HubZone designation as “a way to do business with the federal government.”

“I’m excited to see 34 businesses in the state get the HubZone certification and the opportunity we have to add more right here in La Porte County,” Hulse said. The certification gives businesses a better chance at securing contracts with the federal government. 

The federal government has a goal to provide 3 percent of their contracting funds nationwide to businesses within HubZones, not reaching the goal in 2013 (1.76% - which resulted in $6.2 billion anyway). Manufacturers, businesses in the service industry, landscapers and construction companies, or, as Hulse says, “a broad range - any service the federal government would need” are encouraged to apply for the certification.

Darrell Maust, an intern with the EDCMC, said he was interested in seeing that “opportunities are available.”

Lisa Gerardi, owner of Keri Herbs - a new business looking to open soon in Michigan City, also said she found the seminar “very informative” and was amazed at the free resources that are available to help small businesses.

“I’m surprised to see what you can get done with some assistance,” she said.

Other topics such as how to apply to be a “Woman Owned Small Business” distinction and the needs to be part of the 8(a) program, which Anderson said, “graduates firms that will go on to thrive in a competitive business environment” were discussed, as was a presentation from Indiana’s Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) - which has a goal to generate employment and improve the general economic condition of the state.

Bill Pishkur, counselor at the PTAC’s Hammond office, outlined questions to ask about your business before starting like if it meets the government’s needs, who the potential partners could be and i profit is feasible.

“I’d only recommend this (federal government participation) if you’ve had your business for at least three years,” he said.

With seminar attendees mainly from Northwest Indiana areas outside the designated HubZone area, Hulse said he is excited to see the possibility of those companies expand into Michigan City because of this possibility.

“This is another great way we can keep companies here and attract new ones, too,” Hulse said. “Come on out to Michigan City.”

To apply your company to be a “HubZone certified” business, go to www.sba.gov/content/applying-hubzone-program